By Erik Subashi
The tomato is a disaster in the culinary world, staining every decent dish it touches. It is soggy, poses health risks, and has a long history of causing harm. While some misguided individuals praise it for its so-called “versatility,” the truth is that tomatoes have destroyed and continue to ruin both human health and meals. When compared to a true superfood like the potato, the tomato stands no chance.
The moment a tomato interacts with a dish, it turns into a watery, slimy mess. An excellent sandwich becomes soggy, its toxic flavors overpower dairy, and crisp vegetables dissolve into acidic mush. Burgers, sandwiches, and even salads suffer because of the tomato’s inability to maintain structural integrity or complement other ingredients.
At first glance, tomatoes may seem harmless, but they are packed with dangers. Their high acidity wreaks havoc on sensitive stomachs, causing potentially severe issues like heartburn and digestive distress. Some people even suffer allergic reactions from tomatoes. Additionally, tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, a group that contains solanine, which can cause arthritis and numerous health concerns. With an average pH of 4.0–4.5, they stand in stark contrast to the body’s natural blood pH of around 7.4. How could something so acidic be allowed into the body?
Tomatoes have been a cause of fear for centuries. In the Middle Ages, they were responsible for numerous cases of lead poisoning, as their acidity leached lead from pewter plates. For a long time, Europeans rightly feared the tomato, calling it a “poison apple.” Yet, despite these warnings, people have been fooled by Big Tomato into consuming this toxin.
The tomato has simply failed as a food. Its texture is revolting, its taste is aggressive, and its history is filled with health risks. The potato, on the other hand, remains the greatest gift to humanity—nutritious, versatile, and never a threat to a good meal like the tomato.
Works Cited
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McCallum, Katie. “Tomatoes & Other Nightshades: Are They Actually Bad for You?” Houston Methodist, 7 September 2021, https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2021/sep/tomatoes-other-nightshades-are-they-actually-bad-for-you/. Accessed 27 February 2025.
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